Leading Others to Do Harm
Adin Ross directed Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua to make an antisemitic gesture on his livestream—a gesture whose offensive meaning Nacua did not appear to understand. In moments like these, we are called...
Lighting the Menorah at the Milwaukee Admirals Game
Last night, I had the joy and honor of lighting the menorah and welcoming in Hanukkah one night early at the Milwaukee Admirals game on behalf of the Jewish Community Center of Milwaukee and Milwaukee...
“It’s Only $10… And It’s Not Mine.”
Over the weekend, my cousin, her middle-school daughter, my girlfriend, and I wandered through a holiday art fair—one of those cozy, colorful spaces where creativity fills the air. As we browsed a booth, I suddenly...
Mindful Monday: A Torah Repaired, A World in Need of Healing
Recently, one of its atzei ḥayyim—the wooden handles that hold and support the scroll—broke. Not only did this make hagbah (lifting the Torah) impossible, but it also created a moment of reflection: even sacred things...
The Prospects of Peace: A Pre-Yom Kippur Message
This evening brought news of possibility: perhaps not just a ceasefire, but permanent peace, a path to Palestinian self-determination, and a new horizon of security for Israel. Nothing is certain, and we know how quickly...
Mindful Monday Message: Beyond Seeing
Last night, I was up in Sturgeon Bay in Door County officiating at a wedding, with dinner and dancing overlooking the Bay. During the nighttime, we were told we could see the Northern Lights. I...
Mindful Monday Message: A Parent’s Joy
If you ask my kids what matters most to me as a parent, they’ll both say: that they get along. I’ve always told them this because the two of them will likely be in each...
Highland Park Shooting (July 4th)
Having posted just a little bit ago, I have now heard the tragic news of the Highland Park shooting. I’ll now add one personal thought as we continue to pray for the victims of the...
July 4th Reflections
Today, on July 4th, I’m reflecting on the U.S. Its remarkable accomplishments and its struggles, its contributions to society and the world and where we still needs to go. Amid the celebrations of July 4th...
Juneteenth Reflections
In our Torah portion this week, shlah, we are taught once again that there should be one law for all in the Israelite community. Whether a person is an Israelite, a resident alien, or a...